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CutAndJacked.com Interview:

Tanya Etessam

How/when did you get started in training
and living a fit lifestyle?

I have always "trained" in some aspect; I grew up as a ballet/ contemporary dancer. I got heavily into weight training and eating properly/nutritiously when I was about 19 years old. This is when I began to educate myself about food and resistance training; my life has changed for the better ever since.

Do you cater your training towards balance and flexibility? What advice would you give to someone wanting to improve these aspects?

Being a former dancer, I do believe flexibility is very important. I do not "cater" my training towards balance and flexibility, however I do focus on full range of motion (ROM) for each and every exercise. I believe that full ROM is essential for a balanced body.

How do you stay motivated?

How do you not?! We live in our body forever and should treat it like gold. People spend tons of money on fancy cars and premium fuel, but don't even fuel their own bodies with healthy foods... ironic.

How do you deal with cravings for junk foods,
sweets and salty food?

What are your top 3 favorite exercises?

Squats, burpees (yea, I know i'm weird haha), and lateral raises

Do you listen to music whilst you train?

Sometimes... when I am lifting I mostly don't listen to music. I get so into my workout that I am just in another world... music is almost a distraction. When I do sprints, however, I ALWAYS have my ipod! I have a huge variety of music on my playlist... anything from house, to R&B, to instrumental mixes.

Do you set short and long term goals?

Yes! I set new short/long term goals on a daily basis. I am currently working towards the launch of my own business...

What are you most proud of?

I am proud of being an Etessam. My family is the most supportive family in the world. No matter what crazy ideas, ambitions, or goals I have (trust me, I have tons!) they are ALWAYS behind me 1000%

Have you had any obstacles or setbacks towards achieving your goal physique?

My biggest obstacle was suffering from anorexia. To read my full story click link at the end of article.

How do you measure your progress?

It is all about how you feel; obsessing over numbers can make us crazy! I go by how I feel and how I look in the mirror.

What supplements would you use/recommend if any?

I recommend the basics: multi-vitamin, fish oil/cla, digestive enzymes, and whey protein powder (for post-workout). I get all of those supplements from a wonderful company, ‘Top Secret Nutrition’

What 3 tips would you give to any woman wanting to get a feminine, CutandJacked physique like yours?

Stop looking for "quick fixes", stop trying extreme fad diets, and stop looking for a miracle pill. This is a lifestyle; it takes time, dedication, and hard work. Anyone can achieve the body they want, they just need to want to work for it as well.